Building the vision through partnership
In the latest developer update, the theme of partnership took center stage as Marlo Dykeman, executive director for Jasper, moderated a discussion with Dave Everson, owner of Mandalay Homes, and Jason Gisi, president and CEO of Arizona Eco Dev (AED) and Jasper Eco Dev (JED). The focus was on the ongoing collaboration, intentional partnerships, and shared vision for the Jasper community.
How it all began
The conversation kicked off with Jason explaining how the partnership between Mandalay Homes, Arizona Eco Dev, and Jasper Eco Dev began. Jason praised Dave as the only builder in the area willing to take a risk and try something different.
Dave shared Jason’s vision for creating a unique master-planned development — something that would set them apart from other communities in Prescott Valley — which laid the foundation for their collaboration. They blended lot sizes and architectural designs to create interesting streetscapes and offered homes with a multitude of options for the buyers.
Despite the investment risks and experimental nature of the Jasper project, both parties remain committed to the partnership. Now, they are focused on refining their approach in future phases.
Learning from Phases 1 and 2
When asked about lessons learned from developing and building Phases 1 and 2, Jason highlighted the need for better planning regarding lot delivery to builders by creating a “cleaner, more organized” construction area for builder construction teams and the developer.
Jasper Eco Dev is looking at the side yard wall, which have been problematic. To address this, they plan to invest more upfront and build differently to avoid landscape damage and costly repairs later.
Additionally, the architectural style of the homes will evolve in Phase 3, offering a refreshed look that continues to complement and build the Jasper brand. Jason wants Jasper to be known for it’s unique quality and “flair” that sets the community apart from others in Yavapai County. Dave added that Jasper has a “great canvas” and adding more architectural styles will blend into the community seamlessly.
Jason emphasized Mandalay Homes’ role in pioneering new home-building practices. From research and development to Jasper’s architectural finishes, Dave has played an integral part of shaping the look and feel of Jasper.
Dave added everyone involved in the planning of Jasper wanted it to be special. Instead of building a traditional home, Jason encouraged partners to offer something that would differentiate Jasper from neighboring communities.
Dave acknowledged that early home buyers faced challenges due to the pandemic, supply chain issues, and labor shortages, but noted that warranty tickets have been reduced by 70%.
Commitment to landscaping and community
Landscaping was another key topic. Mandalay Homes is dedicated to repairing the common areas that were damaged during early construction. Gravel has already been replaced despite the setback from a quarry closure that delayed supplies. Dave explained that their approach is methodical to ensure the repairs are made correctly and that trees and plants have a chance of surviving.
There have been shortages in the supply, causing any available plants and trees to be low quality and very expensive. They plan to replace plants in Phase 1 during July and August, anticipating better availability of plants and trees and lower costs.
Jason added that JED invested 4.9 million dollars to the landscape design and installation of common space areas. They remain responsible for these areas, such as the entry areas into neighborhoods and along Jasper’s main roads.
Both Jason and Dave stressed the importance of not pointing fingers or charging homeowners for damages related to move-ins or personal landscaping projects. They detailed the sequence of events necessary for landscape repair, such as installing irrigation lines before laying gravel and planting, to prevent repeated plant loss.
Jason reiterated the fact that labor and supply continue to be an issue for these landscape repairs. Buckets were installed last fall when labor was readily available as placeholders for new plants. Unfortunately, this spring when they planned on installing plants, both labor and plants were scarce.
Development in Jasper
Jason briefly discussed the current state of land and road development in Jasper. While homes are selling better than expected, there is still a longer buying cycle, with prospective buyers taking more time before making a purchase. Overall, it’s been a good year for home sales.
A key update involved Glassford Hill. Jason squelched any rumors that they would be developing and building on this land. Yavapai County, the town of Prescott Valley and the city of Prescott purchased Glassford Hill from the State Land Trust in an auction in October 2023. This was done to preserve the open space, ensuring there will be nothing built on the land.
Regarding the progress of Phase 3, there is no estimated completion date. Currently 20-30% of the lots are complete. Sales of the first lots to Capstone are expected to happen in October 2024.
Jasper Parkway South, both in and outside of Jasper, is expected to be paved by October 2024.
Looking ahead
The update concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between Mandalay Homes and Arizona Eco Dev. Both parties are dedicated to the vision of Jasper and are continuously improving their processes. Their local ties and collaborative efforts are crucial to the development’s success, as they move into future phases with lessons learned and a commitment to excellence.
Stay tuned to your inbox for the next developer update scheduled for early fall.
Previous Developer Updates
March 13, 2024
November 16, 2023
June 21, 2023
April 10, 2023